Rehman Malik asks Taliban to give up violence for peace talks

Islamabad,
Mon, 12 Mar 2012ANI

Islamabad, Mar 12 (ANI): Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik has invited the Taliban for peace talks with the government by giving up violence.

"Standing in the historic city of Lahore, I urge the Taliban to come and join us in pursuit of durable peace instead of violence for our future generations," The Express Tribune quoted Malik, as saying.

Talking about sectarian groups involved in violence, he said if such organisations seek forgiveness, there was no harm in giving them a chance.

Malik had earlier said the government would not hold talks with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) until terrorists surrender before the authorities.

Denying the media reports about negotiations taking place between the government and the TTP, Malik said: "I talked to the stake holders in Bajaur and they confirm that there are no talks with them."

"If TTP surrenders, definitely the government would consider talks," he added. (ANI)